Your Definitive Guide Of Where To Watch The Rugby World Cup In Dubai
The 2015 Rugby World Cup kicks off next Friday with England playing Fiji in Twickenham.
The 20 teams participating will navigate group matches and knockout rounds until the Final takes place on the 31st of October. Reigning champions New Zealand are favourites to retain the crown, however the home nations and fellow Northern Hemisphere countries are looking to put up a strong challenge. In truth, any of seven countries have a right to believe they are in with a chance.
And each country will be supported in Dubai by its expats, but where – other than the OSN Sports Package on your sofa – are the best places in Dubai to watch this years tournament?
Stalwarts 1: Barasti
Preview: Barasti shouldn’t need much of an introduction, it’s guaranteed to have a good crowd for each match (well, maybe not for Samoa vs. Japan). The weekend games with evening starts are especially likely to get a good crowd in.
Most likely nation hangout: England / South Africa / mix
Clincher: It will have the air conditioned tent up for much of the tournament.
Stalwarts 2: Girders
Preview: Girders is the self proclaimed ‘Home of Rugby’ in Dubai. It’s got a rugby club vibe and always brings in a good match crowd.
Most likely nation hangout: Wales
Clincher: Great prizes on offer such as two tickets to the World Cup final including flights and accommodation, or Abu Dhabi F1 tickets.
Stalwarts 3: Bibi Bondi
Preview: Bidi Bondi is a hangout on the palm that’s popular for all rugby matches as you get to have a few beers by the beach.
Most likely nation hangout: Australia
Clincher: Heineken Bucket only AED 130
Stalwarts 4: MgGettigans
Preview: McGettigans is the go-to Irish bar and best of the bunch in Dubai, especially when it comes to live sport. They have a separate Guinness tent area with a pretty large screen. Be sure to get there early if you’re going for any of the Irish matches.
Most likely nation hangout: Ireland
Clincher: Ireland are going to win the World Cup (author may be biased).
Ones to Watch Out For 1: Nezesaussi
Preview: Nezesaussi Grill is going all out the event. With a name short for rugby powerhouses such as New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, we would expect nothing less. Likely to be busy until the very end.
Most likely nation hangout: South Africa for sure, with New Zealand and Australia probably flying their flags there too.
Clincher: Watching the beginning of the tournament with a legend of the game is a great way to get things started!
Ones to Watch Out For 2: Arabian Ranches Golf Club
Preview: Lets face it, golf clubs in Dubai are very luxurious so if they make an effort to show the big tournament it’s going to be something to get excited about. Arabian Ranches are doing so and we can’t wait.
Most likely nation hangout: England
Clincher: Every game live in Birdies Sports Lounge with happy hour included.
Ones to Watch Out For 3: Kickers Dubai Sports City
Preview: Kickers Dubai Sports City is fast becoming a popular haunt for live sport in Dubai Sports City. With outdoor and indoor screens you can enjoy the match after a game of football, cricket or work out in Fit Republik
Most likely nation hangout: Mixed
Clincher: They have different offers each day of the week and you can have your own keg on tap at the bar.
Ones to Watch Out For 4: Emirates Golf Club
Preview: Emirates Golf Club Rugby Tent is the official fan zone where a dedicated tournament theatre is being created to show the matches on 21 screens. With meal and brunch packages available, keep this one in mind for the big matches.
Most likely nation hangout: Mixed
Clincher: Another venue running a competition to see a live match, get down on opening weekend to see England vs. Uruguay.
Ones to Watch Out For 5: Barrel 12
Preview: Barrel 12 Urban Sports Bar is the equivalent of a new kid on the block called up to the squad based on potential but with no pedigree. Although it’s a sports bar, it hasn’t got a great menu.
Nation Most Likely: Unknown
Clincher: Less busy than some of the other spots with the great palm location.
Could Spring a Surprise 1: Quantum Sports Bar
Preview: Quantum Sports Bar, Melia Hotel at this chic Spanish style hotel isn’t the first place that comes to mind to watch sports, nor is the location. It’s the classier hangout to take in the world cup.
Most likely nation hangout: Italy, Argentina
Clincher: Beautiful views of the city from the rooftop pool bar, a nice place to wind down after the game
Could Spring a Surprise 2: Dubai Polo Club
Preview: The Dubai Polo Club isn’t the first place you would think of to watch the rugby but if you want to watch the action in a more serene desert surrounding, this is a great choice
Most likely nation hangout: The neutral rugby fan
Clincher: Hops and wings special for AED 45
Could Spring a Surprise 3: Perry & Blackwelder
Preview: If you are in the Souk Madinat for some food at the weekend and looking to catch the rugby, Perry & Blackwelder could be the place for you. A US BBQ chain, they will be showing all of the games live.
Most likely nation hangout: USA, mix
Clincher: WIN tickets and flights for you and a mate to watch New Zealand vs. Argentina or England vs. Wales live in London
Special Mention…Gardenfest presents: The Full Monty on 8 – Media One Hotel
Preview: A new, lively venue to enjoy the world cup. Come here for craft beers, a great atmosphere and a class setting to enjoy the game.
Most likely nation hangout: mixture
Clincher:A new venue offering themed nights, great atmosphere and good fun for the duration of the world cup. This will be a venue to watch for 2015.
D&A Restaurant and Bar – Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Preview: And last but certainly not least, the Dhow & Anchor bar. Watch the game on a huge outdoor screen, while enjoying a full bar on a terrace which spreads across two levels. Or sit inside where there are floor to ceiling windows with an uninterrupted view of the Burj Al Arab. Head there early as it’s bound to fill up fast.
Most likely nation hangout: mixture
Clincher: With a ‘roast of the day’ available every day come here for a good feed before each match.
